Sharp consistently delivers unique smartphones, often prioritizing design and features over mainstream trends. Today, we're pitting two of their models against each other: the Aquos Sense5G, known for its affordability and 5G connectivity, and the Aquos Zero 2, a premium device with flagship specs. Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison to see which one comes out on top.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Sharp Aquos Zero 2 is the clear winner thanks to its significantly more powerful Snapdragon 855 chipset, superior display, and faster charging. However, the Sense5G offers a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious buyers seeking 5G connectivity and a solid all-around experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 41 | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 28, 38, 39, 41 - Taiwan |
| 5G bands | 1, 3, 28, 78 SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 25. Released 2021, June 10 | 2020, May 22. Released 2020, May 22 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum frame, aluminum back | - |
| Dimensions | 148 x 71 x 8.9 mm (5.83 x 2.80 x 0.35 in) | 158 x 74 x 8.8 mm (6.22 x 2.91 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 178 g (6.28 oz) | 141 g (4.97 oz) |
| | IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)
MIL-STD-810H compliant | IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2280 pixels, 19:9 ratio (~435 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.8 inches, 84.0 cm2 (~79.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.4 inches, 100.5 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IGZO IPS LCD, HDR10 | OLED, 1B colors, 240Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Kryo 560 Gold & 6x1.7 GHz Kryo 560 Silver) | Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Kryo 485 & 3x2.42 GHz Kryo 485 & 4x1.78 GHz Kryo 485) |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM6350 Snapdragon 690 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 619L | Adreno 640 |
| OS | Android 11 | Android 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | No |
| Internal | 128GB 8GB RAM | 256GB 8GB RAM |
| | UFS | UFS 3.0 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
20 MP, f/2.4, 125˚ (ultrawide), AF |
| Features | LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Triple | 12 MP, f/2.0, (wide), AF
8 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto), AF
12 MP, f/2.4, 121˚ (ultrawide) | - |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP, f/2.2, 23mm (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | No |
| 35mm jack | Yes | No |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| | - | 24-bit/192kHz audio |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.1, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive |
| NFC | Yes | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS | GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 3.1 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 27W wired | Wired, PD2.0 |
| Type | Li-Ion 4570 mAh | Li-Ion 3130 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Satin Gold, Titanium Black | Blue |
| Models | SHG03 | SH-Z20, SHV47, 906SH |
| Price | About 250 EUR | About 670 EUR |
Sharp Aquos sense5G
- Affordable
- 5G Connectivity
- Compact Size
- Decent Battery Life
- Lower Performance
- Less Premium Design
- Smaller Display
- Slower Charging
Sharp Aquos Zero 2
- Flagship Performance
- Stunning Display (90Hz)
- Premium Design
- Faster Charging (PD2.0)
- Higher Price
- Smaller Battery Capacity (potentially)
- Less Common Availability
Display Comparison
The Aquos Zero 2 boasts a 6.4-inch IGZO display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant colors, excellent contrast, and smooth scrolling. The Sense5G has a smaller 5.8-inch IGZO display, likely with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Zero 2's larger size and higher refresh rate provide a noticeably better viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Both phones feature capable camera systems, but the Zero 2 likely has a slight edge due to its more powerful processor and potentially better image processing algorithms. The Sense5G likely has a 12MP main camera, while the Zero 2 probably has a 12MP main camera with improved features. Both likely have ultrawide and macro lenses. Low-light performance is likely better on the Zero 2.
Performance
Here's where the Zero 2 truly shines. The Snapdragon 855 is a flagship chipset that delivers significantly faster performance than the Sense5G's Snapdragon 690 5G. Expect smoother multitasking, faster app loading times, and a much better gaming experience on the Zero 2. The Sense5G is adequate for everyday tasks but will struggle with demanding applications.
Battery Life
The Sense5G likely has a 3,900mAh battery, while the Zero 2 probably has a 3,100mAh battery. Despite the smaller capacity, the Zero 2's more efficient processor and PD2.0 charging may result in comparable or even slightly better battery life in some scenarios. The Sense5G's 27W charging is decent, while the Zero 2's PD2.0 support allows for faster charging with compatible chargers.
Buying Guide
The Sharp Aquos Sense5G is ideal for users on a budget who need 5G connectivity and a reliable, everyday smartphone. The Aquos Zero 2 is perfect for power users, gamers, and anyone who demands top-tier performance, a stunning display, and a premium experience, provided they can justify the higher price.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Sharp Aquos Zero 2 worth the extra cost?
If you prioritize performance and a premium display, the Zero 2 is worth the investment. However, if you're on a budget and primarily need a reliable 5G phone, the Sense5G offers excellent value.
❓ What is IGZO display technology?
IGZO (Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide) is a display technology known for its energy efficiency, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast ratios. Sharp has heavily utilized IGZO in their Aquos line.
